Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 16, 2024 1:11 pm GMT
Despite a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Elfsborg in the UEFA Europa League, Roma’s coach Ivan Juric remains optimistic about his team’s potential. Juric believes that there were significant positives to take away from the match, emphasizing that he is not ready to abandon the hard work put in by his players.
Juric Sees Positives in Defeat
In his post-match interview with Sky Sport Italia, Juric stated, “I saw a lot of positives, we moved the ball well.” While the match ended unfavorably for the Giallorossi due to a penalty kick awarded to Elfsborg, the coach highlighted several encouraging aspects of the team’s play.
- The team had more possession in the second half.
- Lorenzo Pellegrini created significant chances late in the game.
- Juric acknowledged the need for improvement on counter-attacks.
Juric noted that despite the loss, it’s essential not to view the performance solely through a negative lens. He insisted, “I would not call it a negative performance, nor a chaotic one.”
Squad Depth and Performance Concerns
Roma’s squad was heavily rotated for this match, leading to questions about whether this was a factor in the team’s inability to perform at their best. Tommaso Baldanzi was called out for a handling offense, leading to the crucial penalty. Juric addressed concerns regarding the depth and construction of the team, especially with previous notes from Jose Mourinho and Daniele De Rossi about the squad’s limitations.
“I have a squad and I think debating that is counter-productive,” Juric explained. “I am very satisfied with many things, but we need to improve many others.”
Despite the defeat, Juric emphasized the need to focus on the next match, stating that the team made “impressive steps forward in terms of our football.”
Key Players and Future Prospects
Juric’s comments also touched on the performance of Matias Soulé, who has been struggling to find his place in the Roma lineup. The coach remains hopeful about Soulé’s development, recognizing his talent and hard work.
- Juric believes Soulé shows promise despite his challenges.
- He highlighted that Soulé is adjusting to the demands of Serie A.
“Let’s not forget he only had one season at Frosinone, so he needs time and patience,” Juric said, reaffirming the importance of allowing players to develop at their own pace.
Looking Ahead
With Roma’s domestic success in Serie A, Juric faces the challenge of balancing player rotation and performance across competitions. The recent victory streak in the league must be sustained while improving results in Europe.
The coach’s commitment to enhancing the team’s tactical discipline and effectiveness remains clear. As he prepares the Giallorossi for their next match, fans can remain hopeful that the positive aspects seen against Elfsborg will translate into better results moving forward.
Even though losing to Elfsborg hurts, Ivan Juric is looking at the bright side, which gives Roma fans some hope. The team is trying hard to build on what they do well and fix what needs work. Support from their fans will be really important as they move forward.
